Bhubaneswar – Leader of Opposition Naveen Patnaik sharply criticized the state government on Friday, calling the newly presented 2025-26 state budget “anti-growth.”
Speaking during the budget discussion in the assembly, Patnaik recalled how, under the previous BJD government, Odisha enjoyed high growth that lifted millions out of poverty—a fact even recognized by central institutions. He argued that since the current “Double Engine Government” took over, the state’s growth has slipped from 10 percent to 8 percent.
Patnaik went on to say that the BJP-led government, which was expected to propel Odisha forward, now seems to be moving in the wrong direction. He claimed that many initiatives from the previous administration have just been renamed, so instead of being known for progress, Odisha is now recognized for merely changing labels and colors.
He also pointed out that when inflation is taken into account, the budget’s increase—from 2.77 lakh crore to 2.90 lakh crore—actually represents a smaller boost than it appears, suggesting that the government is struggling to grow the state’s revenue base.
Additionally, Patnaik criticized the rising debt, noting that Odisha’s open market loans have surpassed Rs 46,000 crore and that the per capita debt is increasing each year. According to him, this mounting loan burden will strain state finances, leaving less money for development and welfare projects. He also mentioned that funding from the Central government has not increased, despite the state’s growing needs.
Patnaik highlighted that the previous BJD government had built a robust fiscal foundation, allowing Odisha to fund many development projects with its own tax revenue rather than relying heavily on Central aid. He also slammed the current government for cutting funds for projects like the Bhubaneswar Metro Rail and the Mission Shakti programs.
Finally, Patnaik questioned the benefit of renaming schemes—for example, changing “Skilled in Odisha” to “Skilled for the World”—arguing that such changes do nothing to create local jobs but instead serve as distractions from the real issues facing the people of Odisha.
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